A spark of fitness opportunities has lit a fire of health in the Coonabarabran community.

From bootcamps, to boxing and tennis, Coonabarabran’s newest social run meet offers encouragement and camaraderie.

Every Tuesday afternoon a group of like-minded people gather to pump each other up for an evening of exercise.

The Coona Run/ Walk Group has been active for close to two months and welcomes runners, walkers, dogs and children.

Two separate courses are mapped out, to cater for all skills levels.

The smaller course covers a distance of 4.9 kilometres and the other, larger course covers 10 kilometres.

The inception of the Coona Run Group was spearheaded by Arthur Norton, who emphasised that the courses were crafted to provide both flexibility and independence

Running as a form of exercise has been a part of Mr Norton’s life for 25 years and he said the group was a way to bring people together and build encouragement.

“It is a gathering where you come and pick your path, meet like-minded people and enjoy the great outdoors. You can come and mix with others and there is no pressure,” Mr Norton said.

“You get a bit sore and tired, but when you persist and you keep at it, the mental and physical benefits are wonderful – not to mention the camaraderie involved.

“For those wanting to push themselves, you can compete against your mates and encourage each other to go harder – just as a bit of light-hearted banter and fun.”

Mr Norton also said the group had room for expansion, with a steady half-a-dozen people turning up each week.

No money is required to join and the group meets at the front of Yaama Cafe at 6.30pm every Tuesday.

The Coonabarabran community may have more opportunities for fitness as community members work behind the scenes to bring a ‘parkrun’ to town.

According to Mr. Norton, the run group is enthusiastic about backing parkrun events.

Mr Norton even journeyed to Tamworth recently to participate in his inaugural five- kilometre parkrun.

Community health stands as a crucial aspect in both the Coona Run Group and parkrun events.

PHOTO: Coonabarabran runners ready to pound the pavement. Front: Jim Larkin and Richard Allen. Back: Marty Rehwinkel, Arthur Norton, John Whittall and Joel Amiet.